Cyprus says it will make the Republic of Moldova's candidacy a priority after the country takes over the presidency of the EU Council on January 1.

The President of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, stated on Friday, after the meeting with Maia Sandu, that Nicosia will use the presidency of the EU Council to advance the enlargement process, thus supporting the Republic of Moldova's accession to the European Union. This is the first official visit of a Moldovan president to Cyprus in 22 years. Sandu emphasized that EU accession is essential for Moldova, considering the regional instability, and described it as the most important national project. She also highlighted that EU enlargement would strengthen Ukraine's security and limit external influence. A recent EU assessment praised Moldova's progress in implementing the necessary reforms for accession, indicating that the country is ahead of Ukraine in this process.